Rumor: Blackhawks preparing to force Seabrook into retirement

Earlier today the Chicago Blackhawks announced that veteran defenseman Brent Seabrook will not travel with his team to Winnipeg and will stay in Chicago to undergo medical evaluation.

Check it out:

That’s mighty suspicious… especially given Seabrook’s contract situation. It’s no secret that the Blackhawks would love to get out from their commitment to Seabrook and… well the team has some history of putting players into early retirement via long-term injury reserve. Remember Marian Hossa and his mysterious skin condition?

Maybe we’re just being cynical though… in that case I sincerely hope all is well with Seabrook and he can get back into the lineup in short order.

But… something tells me there’s more to this story than meets the eye. Stay tuned.